Replacing auto parts on your vehicle when needed makes all the difference in how long you get to drive your car. Replacing parts when they become worn will extend the life of your vehicle. And these days, more drivers are staying in their cars longer. By 2021, more than 20 million vehicles on the road will be over 25 years old, according to IHS Markit research. That’s a lot of vehicles in need of quality auto parts.
Replacing Auto Parts
Regularly replacing auto parts when they become worn out is one of the key ways to preserve the life of your vehicle. A used car also needs its fluids checked and changed regularly. Change the air and oil filters regularly as well. Filters, plugs, and fluids are inexpensive auto parts. Keeping up with these small maintenance tasks will keep your vehicle running much more smoothly for a much longer period of time.
The Truth About Used Cars
Do used cars require more maintenance? This is a common misconception. While a used car will have more miles and wear on it than a new car, regular maintenance is the exact same. Both new and used cars need the fluids and filters changed regularly, and you’ll end up replacing auto parts even on a new vehicle at some point. The average vehicle will have three owners in its lifetime, and nearly 40 million used cars are sold every year through dealerships and private party sales.
Buying a used car is an affordable solution for someone who doesn’t have the resources to buy a new car. Most dealerships do provide on-site financing, however, so find out what you can afford before you make up your mind. Most dealerships have 5 to 10 banks or loan providers that they have developed working relationships with. This allows you to explore different financing options and find the most competitive offers.
Finding New and Used Car Dealers
Whether you’re looking for auto parts or a whole vehicle, car dealerships can help. These businesses maintain relationships with auto parts salvage yard services and other businesses that can provide various types of auto parts. Used car dealers, in particular, will have a large database of auto parts retailers. They also have mechanics who can service your vehicle and install the new auto parts, if needed.
Car dealerships can also provide another option when you want to get a vehicle: lease deals. Rather than choosing to buy a new or used car, choose lease deals that allow you to drive a car for a while and then trade it in for something even better. Some drivers swear by lease deals that allow them to trade in vehicles before they have to do any major maintenance or repair work.
What’s the best option for you? Find out about financing options, take a look at your budget, and factor in the ongoing maintenance costs for your vehicle to find the one that’s going to work for you.